Galaxy S20 Vs iPhone 15 Plus

Galaxy S20
Galaxy S20
Starting at

Refurbished price:193.00

Versus €909.00 new

See options
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Plus
Starting at

Refurbished price:421.00

Versus €979.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20, released in early 2020, and the iPhone 15 Plus, launched in late 2023, represent different generations of flagship smartphones. While both offer robust mobile experiences, the iPhone 15 Plus introduces more recent advancements in processing power, camera technology, and software longevity. The Galaxy S20 operates on the Android platform, while the iPhone 15 Plus runs on iOS, offering distinct user interfaces and ecosystem experiences.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their respective release timelines and software support policies are key factors.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S20 was introduced in March 2020, making it a device from an earlier generation. The iPhone 15 Plus, released in September 2023, benefits from a significantly more recent launch.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S20 series received major Android updates up to Android 13 and its official software and security support concluded in April 2025. In contrast, the iPhone 15 Plus, launching with iOS 17, is expected to receive software updates for approximately 5 to 7 years from its release, potentially extending its functional lifespan well into the future.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S20 series generally received a lower repairability score, often cited around 3 out of 10, due to factors like strong adhesives and intricate internal layouts. The iPhone 15 Plus, however, has a more favorable repairability score of 7 out of 10, indicating a design that is more conducive to repairs.

Year of Release

2020

2023

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of these two smartphones reflect the advancements in mobile technology over several years.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 15 Plus features a current-generation processor, which translates to very responsive performance for demanding applications, complex multitasking, and graphically intensive games. The Galaxy S20, with its processor from 2020, handles everyday tasks smoothly but may show limitations with the most intensive modern applications compared to the newer device.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Both devices are designed for efficient multitasking. The iPhone 15 Plus, with its newer architecture, offers a more fluid experience when switching between numerous applications and managing background processes. The Galaxy S20, while capable, might exhibit slightly longer loading times for heavy apps.
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S20 typically comes with 128GB of internal storage but offers the flexibility of expandable storage via a microSD card. The iPhone 15 Plus provides multiple internal storage configurations, including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, but does not support expandable storage.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

Both devices offer high-quality displays, but with notable differences in technology and user experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy S20 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a high resolution of 3200x1440 pixels, providing sharp and detailed visuals. The iPhone 15 Plus has a larger 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2796x1290 pixels, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.
  • Refresh Rate: A significant difference lies in the refresh rate. The Galaxy S20 supports a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations, though this is typically available at a lower resolution setting to conserve battery. The iPhone 15 Plus features a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The iPhone 15 Plus offers high peak brightness levels, reaching up to 2000 nits for outdoor use, which enhances visibility in bright sunlight. The Galaxy S20 also provides a bright display, but the iPhone 15 Plus generally offers superior outdoor performance.

Resolution

1440 x 3200

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with capable camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos, though their approaches differ.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S20 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 12MP main sensor, a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. It is capable of recording 8K video. The iPhone 15 Plus utilizes a dual-camera system with a 48MP main sensor that offers 2x optical zoom equivalent, and a 12MP ultrawide lens.
  • Photography Performance: The iPhone 15 Plus is praised for its low-light performance, vibrant color reproduction, and detailed shots, even in challenging conditions. The Galaxy S20 also delivers sharp and colorful images, with users appreciating its low-light capabilities and features like Single Take.
  • Front Camera: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S20 has a 10MP front camera, while the iPhone 15 Plus features a 12MP front camera with autofocus.

Main camera

12 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

  • Connectivity: Both phones support 5G connectivity, though the Galaxy S20's 5G capabilities might vary by region and model. The iPhone 15 Plus supports current Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 standards, while the Galaxy S20 supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Biometrics: Both devices have adopted a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, and neither includes a traditional headphone jack. The Galaxy S20 features an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor and face unlock. The iPhone 15 Plus relies on Face ID for secure authentication.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S20 is a more compact device, weighing 163g with dimensions of 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9 mm. The iPhone 15 Plus is larger and heavier at 201g, with dimensions of 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm, offering a more expansive screen experience. Both devices feature IP68 water and dust resistance.

Weight

163 g

171 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.7

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C (USB 2)

The Samsung Galaxy S20 and iPhone 15 Plus cater to different user needs and priorities, largely due to their generational gap. Users often praise the Galaxy S20 for its vibrant 120Hz display (when used at lower resolution) and its versatile camera system, particularly its dedicated telephoto lens and expandable storage. Some criticisms for the S20 have included its battery life when the 120Hz refresh rate is enabled and its relatively lower repairability score.

The iPhone 15 Plus, on the other hand, is frequently lauded for its exceptional battery life, robust performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications, and its significantly longer software support timeline. Its camera system, with a high-resolution main sensor and improved low-light capabilities, also receives positive feedback. Common observations about the iPhone 15 Plus include its standard 60Hz display refresh rate, which some users might find less fluid compared to higher refresh rate screens, and the absence of expandable storage.

Users prioritizing a more compact device with a high refresh rate display and expandable storage might find the Galaxy S20 appealing, especially as a quality-assured refurbished option. For those who value extended software support, superior battery endurance, a larger display, and more recent processing power, the iPhone 15 Plus is likely the more suitable choice. Both devices offer distinct advantages, and choosing between them depends on individual preferences for operating system, size, and specific feature priorities. Considering refurbished options for either model can provide an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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